Veteran Broadcaster James Valentine Hangs Up His Microphone Due to Cancer After 40-Year Career at ABC
In a poignant farewell, Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) stalwart James Valentine has announced his retirement from radio broadcasting after nearly four decades of bringing entertainment and conversation to the airwaves. The 64-year-old saxophonist and broadcaster will be leaving behind a legacy that spans not only his on-air persona but also a storied music career.
Valentine's departure comes at a difficult time, as he had been open about his struggles with oesophageal cancer. In 2024, he revealed his diagnosis on ABC Radio, and after undergoing treatment, he returned to the airwaves only to leave again six months later when new tumours were discovered.
The beloved broadcaster has explained that his decision to step away is not taken lightly but feels it's time for someone else to take the reins of the popular "Afternoons" program. Valentine expressed hope and gratitude towards his loyal listeners, many of whom will miss his unique brand of creativity, humor, and conversation.
As news of his retirement spread, fans took to social media and radio stations to express their sadness and appreciation for Valentine's contributions. His longtime producer, Jennifer Fleming, has announced a two-hour retrospective special, "25 Years of Afternoons," which promises to celebrate the best moments from Valentine's 25-year tenure.
Throughout his illustrious career, Valentine has had the privilege of playing in various bands, including The Models and Pseudo Echo, alongside fellow musicians such as Wendy Matthews and Kate Ceberano. As a saxophonist, he continues to perform with the James Valentine Quartet in Sydney.
Valentine's legacy serves as a testament to his tireless dedication to entertainment and conversation. His decision to step aside will undoubtedly leave a void on Australian radio, but his impact on listeners' lives will continue to be felt for years to come.
In a poignant farewell, Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) stalwart James Valentine has announced his retirement from radio broadcasting after nearly four decades of bringing entertainment and conversation to the airwaves. The 64-year-old saxophonist and broadcaster will be leaving behind a legacy that spans not only his on-air persona but also a storied music career.
Valentine's departure comes at a difficult time, as he had been open about his struggles with oesophageal cancer. In 2024, he revealed his diagnosis on ABC Radio, and after undergoing treatment, he returned to the airwaves only to leave again six months later when new tumours were discovered.
The beloved broadcaster has explained that his decision to step away is not taken lightly but feels it's time for someone else to take the reins of the popular "Afternoons" program. Valentine expressed hope and gratitude towards his loyal listeners, many of whom will miss his unique brand of creativity, humor, and conversation.
As news of his retirement spread, fans took to social media and radio stations to express their sadness and appreciation for Valentine's contributions. His longtime producer, Jennifer Fleming, has announced a two-hour retrospective special, "25 Years of Afternoons," which promises to celebrate the best moments from Valentine's 25-year tenure.
Throughout his illustrious career, Valentine has had the privilege of playing in various bands, including The Models and Pseudo Echo, alongside fellow musicians such as Wendy Matthews and Kate Ceberano. As a saxophonist, he continues to perform with the James Valentine Quartet in Sydney.
Valentine's legacy serves as a testament to his tireless dedication to entertainment and conversation. His decision to step aside will undoubtedly leave a void on Australian radio, but his impact on listeners' lives will continue to be felt for years to come.
It's sad to see James Valentine hang up his mic after 40 years of entertaining us with his music and conversation 
. I'm glad he got to share his story about cancer with ABC Radio, it takes a lot of courage to do that 
. But now, I wonder how the "Afternoons" program will survive without him 
. I've always loved his unique style and humor on air, he was definitely one of a kind 
. The 2-hour retrospective special sounds like a great way to celebrate his career, can't wait to watch it and see some old vids! 
can't believe jimmy valentine just retired 
after 40 yrs of doing what he loves... it's not that he was tired or anything 
cancer was a major factor here 
but at the same time, 25 yr retrospective sounds like a great idea 
maybe they can get some other talented aussies on to fill his shoes 
he's been such an iconic figure in Aussie radio for 40 years and it's crazy to think about all the amazing memories we've shared with him through his shows 
I know cancer is a tough battle to fight, but it's clear that James has given it everything he can and now it's time for him to prioritize his health 
sending him all my love and positive vibes as he starts this new chapter in his life 
, and that special 2hr retrospective is gonna be amazing 
, but at the same time, I think it's awesome that he's choosing to take care of himself after fighting cancer 
. I love that he's getting a special retrospective show 
He's had an amazing career, and I'm so grateful we got to enjoy his shows 
. Bring on the James Valentine Quartet – I'll be there to support him! 
can't wait for that retrospective special tho! 
and who doesn't love his sax skills? 
. I mean, I know cancer can't wait, but he was still going strong just a few months ago 
. The way he's passing on the torch to someone else, though... it feels kinda abrupt 
. He was always so entertaining and had this effortless cool vibe going on 
. Anyway, gotta give it up for the guy - he's left an indelible mark on Aussie radio 
.
It's great that the ABC is doing a retrospective special, I'm sure it'll be really emotional listening to all those old episodes 
2.4% of all global deaths in 2019 were due to cancer 
. valentine's case is a reminder that mental health matters too... his anxiety & depression issues got him to open up about his struggles